Birrieria Ocotlan
Last inspected: Nov 25, 2025
95
Score
Inspectors have visited Birrieria Ocotlan 22 times, with records going back to 2011. The latest inspection on file is from Nov 25, 2025. A low risk tier reflects an inspection that turned up minimal issues.
Violation counts have been trending down, averaging around five violations across recent inspections versus roughly nine violations before.
The most common issue across all inspections has been “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean”, showing up 14 times.
Birrieria Ocotlan's latest score of 95 sits above the Chicago average of 81. The file should reassure diners considering a visit.
22
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
1
Minor latest
Inspection History
Nov 25, 2025
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN DRY STORAGE AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL DEBRIS INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
55
95
Jan 27, 2025
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS NOT LABELED IN DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH COMMON NAME OF FOOD.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OPEN TORTILLAS STORED ON SHELVING UNIT UNDER FRONT COUNTER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY STORE TORTILLAS IN SANITARY MANNER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
39
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS ON SHELVING UNITS IN FRONT PREP AEA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOOR IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS. OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP ON CEILING AND LIGHT SHIELDS IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
82
Jan 8, 2024
Complaint
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 7 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOKED GOAT STORED AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE 73.1F AND DISPLAYED FOR SERVICE IN HOT HOLDING UNIT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DISCARD APPROXIMATELY 20LBS AND $50 OF PRODUCT. ALL HOT FOOD MUST MAINTAIN 135F OR ABOVE DURING STORAGE, PREPARATION, DISPLAY AND SERVICE. PRIORITY 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
21
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SOAP AT REAR HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE SOAP AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS FOR PROPER HAND WASHING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030)C) CITATION ISSUED
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK FOOD CONTAINERS NOT LABELED IN FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH COMMON NAME OF FOOD.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK FOOD CONTAINERS NOT COVERED IN REAR STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COVER ALL BULK CONTAINERS TO PROTECT FOOD FROM CONTAMINATION.
39
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MUTLI-USE UTENSILS NOT INVERTED IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INVERT ALL UTENSILS TO PROTECT FROM CONTAMINATION.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO STOPPERS FOR 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE STOPPERS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD SPILLS AND DEBRIS ON INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, SHELVING UNITS, HOLDING UNITS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE IN WOMEN WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEBRIS ON FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, STORAGE, AND FURNACE ROOM AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
55
Oct 11, 2023
Reinspection
1 major violation. 8 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2582804 10/3/23 NOT CORRECTED #48- 4-603.15STILL OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURE IS NEEDED FOR THE WASHING RINSING AND SANITIZING OF THE LARGE POTS THAT ARE TOO LARGE TO BE SUBMERGED IN THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.PROCEDURE WAS PROVIDED DURING INSPECTION.(COS) (PRIORITY 7-42-090)(CITATION ISSUED)
59
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(C) : MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 : MUST REMOVE EXCESSIVE MOLD BUILD UP AT CAULKING ABOVE 3- COMPARTMENT SINK.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.13 : MUST REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILES IN REAR DINING AREA.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-501.14 : MUST CLEAN EXCESSIVE GREASE BUILD UP FROM HOOD & FILTERS IN FRONT PREP AREA
56
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: 4-204.112(B) : OBSERVED NO THERMOMETER FOR GLASS REACH IN COOLER MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-202.15 : OBSERVED A GAP ALONG BOTTOM OF OUTTER FRONT DOOR MUST MAKE DOOR TIGHT FITTING.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11 : MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKET ON 1- DOOR GLASS REACH IN COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19 : MUST REMOVE RUST FROM LOWER SHELVES OF PREP TABLES IN REAR PREP AREA.MUST REMOVE CARDBOARD FROM LOWER SHELVES OF TABLES IN SAME AREA
47
61
Oct 3, 2023
Routine
3 critical violations. 3 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 16 violations
No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BARE HAND CONTACT WITH READY TO EAT FOODS BY FOOD HANDLER SUCH AS MALE EMPLOYEE PICKED UP A HEATED TORTILLA WITH BARE HANDS TO PUT COOKED GOAT IN .INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DISCARD FOOD.MUST PROVIDE UTENSILS,GLOVES OR DELI PAPER TO HANDLE READY TO EAT FOODS. (COS)(PRIORITY 7-38-010)(CITATION ISSUED)
9
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURES OF TCS READY TO EAT FOODS SUCH AS 400LBS. COOKED GOAT RANGING FROM 74.8F-99.0F ON TOPSIDE OF HOT HOLDING UNIT IN 7- PANS ON REAR PREP TABLE.15LBS. COOKED TONGUE-89.3F IN A PAN ON REAR PREP TABLE. PRODUCT WAS DISCARDED BY MANAGER.MUST HAVE HOT HOLDING FOODS AT 135.0F OR ABOVE. APPX. 415LBS.$5,127.(PRIORITY 7-38-005)(COS)(CITATION ISSUED)
21
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MULTI-USE UTENSILS NOT BEING SANITIZED (0.0 PPM'S)AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK.OBSERVED SOAPY WATER IN A BUCKET INSIDE OF SINK BASIN FAR RIGHT AND DISHES BEING RINSED UNDER RUNNING WATER AND PLACED AT RACK TO DRY.INSTRUCTED TO SET -UP SINK TO PROPERLY SANITIZE UTENSILS.(PRIORITY 7-38-025)(COS)(CITATION ISSUED)
16
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2569131 12/30/22 NOT CORRECTED #10- 6-301.14 OBSERVED A HAND WASHING SIGN IS NEEDED AT THE REAR HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.#48- 4-603.15 OBSERVED A WRITTEN PROCEDURE IS NEEDED FOR THE WASHING RINSING AND SANITIZING OF THE LARGE POTS THAT ARE TOO LARGE TO BE SUBMERGED IN THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.#55-6-201.11 OBSERVED AN UNEVEN SURFACE UNDER THE CUSTOMER SERVICE COUNTER. INSTRUCTED TO MAKE SAID SURFACE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090)(CITATION ISSUED)
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SOAP AT REAR PREP AREA HAND SINK.SOAP WAS PROVIDED DURING INSPECTION.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030)(C)(CITATION ISSUED)
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND DRYING DEVICE AT REAR PREP AREA HAND SINK.PAPER TOWELS WERE PROVIDED DURING INSPECTION.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030)(C)(CITATION ISSUED)(CONSOLIDATED VIOLATION)(COS)
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO THERMOMETER FOR GLASS REACH IN COOLER MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A GAP ALONG BOTTOM OF OUTTER FRONT DOOR MUST MAKE DOOR TIGHT FITTING.
38
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A SPLASH GUARD IN BETWEEN HAND SINK AND MOPSINK.
39
Gloves used properly
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BARE HAND CONTACT WITH READY TO EAT FOODS EMPLOYEE PUT ON GLOVES DURING INSPECTION.
46
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE RUST FROM LOWER SHELVES OF PREP TABLES IN REAR PREP AREA.MUST REMOVE CARDBOARD FROM LOWER SHELVES OF TABLES IN SAME AREA.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKET ON 1- DOOR GLASS REACH IN COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE EXCESSIVE MOLD BUILD UP AT CAULKING ABOVE 3- COMPARTMENT SINK.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILES IN REAR DINING AREA.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN EXCESSIVE GREASE BUILD UP FROM HOOD & FILTERS IN FRONT PREP AREA.
56
29
Dec 30, 2022
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14 OBSERVED A HAND WASHING SIGN IS NEEDED AT THE REAR HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-603.15 OBSERVED A WRITTEN PROCEDURE IS NEEDED FOR THE WASHING RINSING AND SANITIZING OF THE LARGE POTS THAT ARE TOO LARGE TO BE SUBMERGED IN THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
48
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 OBSERVED AN UNEVEN SURFACE UNDER THE CUSTOMER SERVICE COUNTER. INSTRUCTED TO MAKE SAID SURFACE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
86
Dec 23, 2022
Routine
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-501.111 OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY ON SITE. OBSERVED ABOUT 20 RODENT DROPPINGS ALONG THE WALL NEXT TO THE ICE MACHINE, ABOUT 10 RODENT DROPPINGS ALONG THE WALL IN THE CORNER UNDER THE UNUSED HOT HOLDING UNIT AND ALONG THE WALL NEXT TO THE REFRIGERATOR ACROSS FROM THE HOT HOLDING UNIT, AND ABOUT 5 RODENT DROPPINGS LOCATED UNDER THE CUSTOMER SERVICE COUNTER. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE PEST ACTIVITY, CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS AND RECOMMENEDED CONTACTING PEST CONTROL FOR A SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020(A).
38
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14 OBSERVED A HAND WASHING SIGN IS NEEDED AT THE REAR HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-603.15 OBSERVED A WRITTEN PROCEDURE IS NEEDED FOR THE WASHING RINSING AND SANITIZING OF THE LARGE POTS THAT ARE TOO LARGE TO BE SUBMERGED IN THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
48
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 OBSERVED AN UNEVEN SURFACE UNDER THE CUSTOMER SERVICE COUNTER. INSTRUCTED TO MAKE SAID SURFACE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
78
Sep 3, 2021
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN AT THE HAND SINK IN THE REAR FOOD PREP/DISH AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE REAR FOOD PREP/DISH AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE THE STAINED CEILING TILES.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BURNT OUT LIGHT BULB ON THE CEILING IN THE REAR FOOD PREP/DISH AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN RECORDS AT ALL TIMES.
57
82
Aug 27, 2021
Routine
4 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY WITHOUT A CHLORINE CHEMICAL TEST KIT FOR SANITIZER OR FOR WARE WASHING AREA. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE A TEST KIT THAT ACCURATELY MEASURES THE CONCENTRATION IN MG/L OF SANITIZING SOLUTION MUST BE PROVIDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
48
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION #58 NOT CORRECTED WITHIN 90 DAY TIME FRAME ON THE INSPECTION REPORT #2282960 DATED FOR 04/03/19. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT THE VIOLATION SHALL NOW CLASSIFIED AS A PRIORITY FOUNDATION ITEM DUE TO NONCOMPLIANCE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090 NO CITATION ISSUED
60
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AND MAINTAIN WITH VERIFIABLE SIGNED COPIES ON SITE FOR ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE MACHINE WITH A BUILD-UP OF BLACK SLIME SUBSTANCE, DRIPPING ONTO ICE CUBES STORED AT BELOW ICE BIN. THE ICE IS USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN,SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005.CITATION ISSUED
16
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN AT THE HAND SINK IN THE REAR FOOD PREP/DISH AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPER BEING STORED INSIDE THE ICE MACHINE BIN WITH THE HANDLE IN CONTACT WITH THE ICE. INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOP BETWEEN USES.
16
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS PREPPING FOOD WITHOUT HAIR RESTRAINTS. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST WEAR A HAIR RESTRAINT.
40
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FROZEN VEGETABLES STORED IN PLASTIC STORAGE GROCERY BAGS IN THE CHEST FREEZER. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO USE PROPER FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS AND CONTAINERS ONLY.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE REAR FOOD PREP/DISH AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE THE STAINED CEILING TILES.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BURNT OUT LIGHT BULB ON THE CEILING IN THE REAR FOOD PREP/DISH AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN RECORDS AT ALL TIMES.
57
47
Apr 10, 2019
Reinspection
2 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO ADEQUATE SUPPLIES (DISPOSABLE MASK, DISPOSABLE LATEX GLOVES, DISPOSABLE MOP) ON SITE TO PROPERLY CLEAN UP ANY VOMIT OR DIARRHEA EVENTS THAT CAN POTENTIALLY OCCUR INSIDE OF THE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
5
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: 4-302.12 OBSERVED NO METAL STEM THERMOMETERS ON SITE TO PROPERLY TAKE TEMPERATURES OF FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12 OBSERVED DRY STORAGE FOODS (SUGAR) AND FOOD CONTAINERS FOR SALSA IN THE 2 DOOR REFRIGERATOR, OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING AND HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS, WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING THE PRODUCT NAMES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LABELS WITH PRODUCT NAMES FOR ALL FOODS THAT ARE OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING.
37
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-603.15 OBSERVED EQUIPMENT ON SITE THAT IS TOO LARGE TO SUBMERGE IN THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK OF THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE LARGE EQUIPMENT, OR INSTALL A LARGER 3 COMPARTMENT SINK THAT IS LARGE ENOUGH FOR THE LARGEST PIECE OF EQUIPMENT TO FULLY SUBMERGE IN THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN ORDER TO PROPERLY WASH RINSE AND SANITIZE OR PROVIDE A WRITTEN PROCEDURE ON THE PROCESS OF WASHING RINSING AND SANITIZING THE LARGE EQUIPMENT.
48
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-204.12 UNABLE TO LOCATE THE BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE ON THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO LOCATE.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 5-501.17 OBSERVED A COVERED RECEPTACLE IS NEEDED INSIDE OF THE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 OBSERVED FLOORS NEEDED TO BE RE-GROUTED IN VARIOUS AREAS OF THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAKE ALL SURFACES SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITHOUT THE REQUIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
61
Apr 3, 2019
Routine
4 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 15 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-501.111 OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF RODENT ACTIVITY; OBSERVED ABOUT 20 RODENT DROPPINGS IN THE REAR DRY STORAGE ROOM, ABOUT 10 RODENT DROPPINGS LOCATED IN THE BOILER ROOM, ABOUT 10 RODENT DROPPINGS LOCATED AROUND THE 2 DOOR REFRIGERATOR, AND ABOUT 10 RODENT DROPPINGS LOCATED AROUND THE ICE MACHINE. ALSO OBSERVED ABOUT 10 SMALL FLIES IN VARIOUS AREAS OF THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS AND RECOMMENDED CONTACTING PEST CONTROL FOR A SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020(A).
38
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO ADEQUATE SUPPLIES (DISPOSABLE MASK, DISPOSABLE LATEX GLOVES, DISPOSABLE MOP) ON SITE TO PROPERLY CLEAN UP ANY VOMIT OR DIARRHEA EVENTS THAT CAN POTENTIALLY OCCUR INSIDE OF THE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3-501.17 OBSERVED READY TO EAT TOMATO BASED SALSAS IN FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS AND HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS WITHOUT A LABEL CONTAINING A DATE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
23
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: 4-302.12 OBSERVED NO METAL STEM THERMOMETERS ON SITE TO PROPERLY TAKE TEMPERATURES OF FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
36
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14 OBSERVED HAND WASHING SIGNS ARE NEEDED AT THE HAND WASHING SINKS LOCATED IN THE FOOD PREP AREA AND AT THE HAND WASHING SINKS LOCATED IN THE TOILET ROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: 4-204.112(B) OBSERVED NO THERMOMETERS INSIDE OF THE REACH IN FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12 OBSERVED DRY STORAGE FOODS (SUGAR) AND FOOD CONTAINERS FOR SALSA IN THE 2 DOOR REFRIGERATOR, OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING AND HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS, WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING THE PRODUCT NAMES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LABELS WITH PRODUCT NAMES FOR ALL FOODS THAT ARE OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-102.11 OBSERVED GROCERY BAGS BEING USE FOR FOOD STORAGE INSIDE OF THE REACH IN FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED TO USE FOOD GRADE BAGS OR FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS ONLY FOR ALL FOOD STORAGE.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-603.15 OBSERVED EQUIPMENT ON SITE THAT IS TOO LARGE TO SUBMERGE IN THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK OF THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE LARGE EQUIPMENT, OR INSTALL A LARGER 3 COMPARTMENT SINK THAT IS LARGE ENOUGH FOR THE LARGEST PIECE OF EQUIPMENT TO FULLY SUBMERGE IN THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN ORDER TO PROPERLY WASH RINSE AND SANITIZE OR PROVIDE A WRITTEN PROCEDURE ON THE PROCESS OF WASHING RINSING AND SANITIZING THE LARGE EQUIPMENT.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11 OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS AND ACCUMULATED ICE BUILD UP IN THE REACH IN FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ICE AND CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE INTERIOR OF THE REACH IN FREEZERS. OBSERVED A MINOR BROWN SUBSTANCE INSIDE OF THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE ICE MACHINE.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-204.12 UNABLE TO LOCATE THE BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE ON THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO LOCATE.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 5-501.17 OBSERVED A COVERED RECEPTACLE IS NEEDED INSIDE OF THE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 OBSERVED A HOLE IN THE WALL LOCATED BY THE GREASE TRAP, FLOORS NEEDED TO BE RE-GROUTED IN VARIOUS AREAS OF THE FOOD PREP AREA, AND CRACKED FLOOR TILES BY THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO MAKE ALL SURFACES SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11 OBSERVED GASKETS FOR THE LARGE REACH IN FREEZERS IN POOR REPAIR. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE GASKETS.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITHOUT THE REQUIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
39
Mar 19, 2018
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND GROCERY BAGS BEING USED FOR FOOD STORAGE IN THE DEEP FREEZER; INSTRUCTED TO USE FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS TO STORE MEATS AND OTHER FOOD ITEMS.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS AROUND AND BEHIND HEAVY EQUIPMENT (REFRIGERATION UNITS AND ICE MACHINE).
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: THE VENTILATION FANS ON THE WASHROOM CEILINGS HAVE DUST ON THEM; CLEAN VENTS TO REMOVE DUST OBSERVED. CLEAN UNDER FRONT SERVING COUNTER AND STEAM TABLE TO REMOVE SPLATTER AND PIECES OF MEAT.
35
86
Mar 20, 2017
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOORS IN THE FOOD PREP AREA.BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT,AND INSIDE THE REAR STORAGE ROOM,ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE LIGHT SHIELD COVERS IN THE PREP AREAS OF DUST BUILD-UP,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
35
90
Dec 19, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED MEAT STORED IN GROCERY BAGS INSIDE FREEZER. MUST PROVIDE FOOD GRADE STORAGE CONTAINER AND/OR BAGS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE ALL COOLERS TO REMOVE SPILLS AND REMOVE RUST FROM SHELVES.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED CLEANING IN THE FURNACE ROOM TO REMOVE DEBRIS.
34
86
Apr 8, 2016
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERIOR OF THE DEEP FREEZER DIRTY. MUST CLEAN TO REMOVE SPILLS AND DEBRIS. ALSO CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE.
33
95
Apr 30, 2015
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE RUST FROM THE SHELVING UNIT IN THE REAR STORAGE AREA
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DEFROST THE CHEST FREEZERS IN THE REAR PREP AREA.HAS HEAVY ACCUMLICATION OF ICE BUILD-UP,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FLOORS IN THE REAR STORAGE ROOM , ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS
34
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE THE FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING CERTIFICATES OR PROOF OF ENROLLEMENT,UPON NEXT INSPECTION
45
82
Sep 3, 2014
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED REAR 2 DOOR COOLER WITH RUSTY STORAGE RACK, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST. ALSO CLEAN FRONT SODA COOLER INTERIOR FAN GUARD COVER NOT CLEAN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SMALL FREEZER REAR PREP AREA WITH EXCESSIVE ICE, INSTRUCTED TO DEFROST AND CLEAN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED REAR CEILING LIGHT SHIELDS NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
35
86
Mar 13, 2013
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Mar 5, 2013
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: EVIDENCE OF IMPROPER PEST CONTROL.28-MICE DROPPINGS ON PREMISES IN DRY STORAGE ROOM UNDER CRATES,AND 9-MICE DROPPINGS ON FLOOR AROUND HOT WATER TANK.MUST CLEAN/SANITIZE AREAS.CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE.SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED
18
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE NOT CLEAN.MUST CLEAN/MAINTAIN.
33
90
Apr 19, 2012
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.DEBRIS ON FLOORS UPPER AREA IN BOILER ROOM. MUST CLEANING.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: The flow of air discharged from kitchen fans shall always be through a duct to a point above the roofline. GRILL IN PREP AREA NOT UNDER PROPER VENTILATION. MUST INSTALL UNDER HOOD VENTILATION TO THE ROOF OR REMOVE FROM PREMISES.
38
90
Sep 9, 2011
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. RESEAL AROUND THE RESTROOM HAND SINKS THERE IS A GAP BETWEEN SINK AND WALL IN LADIES/MENS ROOM.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage.CLEAN AND SANITIZE INNER LID OF THE ICE MACHINE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.CLEAN FLOOR IN FRONT BOILER ROOM.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned.NEED TO SEAL HOLES IN WALL IN THE BOILER ROOM EAST SIDE.
35
82
Feb 28, 2011
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. OBSERVED RUSTY STORAGE SHELVES IN REAR STORAGE AREA INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUCT RESEAL NON TOXIC SEALER.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily.OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN INTERIOR OF REAR COOLERDOOR RUNNERS, FAN GUARD COVER, BOX FREEZER INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
33
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: All employees shall be required to use effective hair restraints to confine hair.OBSERVED ONE EMPLOYEE WITH OUT HAIR NET INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
42
86
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Birrieria Ocotlan last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Birrieria Ocotlan on file is from Nov 25, 2025. The public record contains 22 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Birrieria Ocotlan?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 14 times, more than any other issue at Birrieria Ocotlan.
Has Birrieria Ocotlan's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Birrieria Ocotlan have averaged around five violations per visit, down from roughly nine earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Birrieria Ocotlan means inspectors found minimal or no significant issues at the most recent visit. Most facilities at this tier have a clean recent inspection report.
How often is Birrieria Ocotlan inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Birrieria Ocotlan is inspected roughly once per year on average.
Nearby Restaurants